Removing “I Can’t”
March 1st, 2010We often let two little words keep us from doing the will of God: “I can’t.” We make excuses, we rationalize our disobedience, and/or we think it is just too hard. We need to realize, however, that God is faithful. 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us we will not face any temptation that we cannot handle. There will always be a way to overcome. Obstacles and trials are common to man, but great men and women have found ways to overcome. Put yourself in the following situations.
Would you read your Bible… If you lost your sight? If you lost your hearing too? If you also lost your arms and legs? Would you find a way to read your Bible? It happened to William McPherson in a mining explosion, but he found a way. He learned to read his Bible in Braille with his tongue. Truly, he was one who loved God’s Word (Psalm 119). He longed for the pure milk of the word (1 Peter 2:1-3) and feasted upon it (cf. Matthew 4:4). If he could read his Bible, you can too.
Would you find peace and contentment… If you lost your only son? Then lost your job and resources? Later lost your remaining children? It happened to Horatio Spafford. He lost his son in 1871. Then the Great Chicago fire ruined his business. In 1873, he sent his family to Europe, but while crossing the Atlantic the boat they were on wrecked and all four of his daughters died. Going to join his wife, he penned the words to the beloved song “It is Well with My Soul” near the spot where his daughters perished. He learned to cast his cares and anxieties upon God and obtained the peace of God despite the difficulties in his life (cf. Philippians 4:6-9,m 11-13). If he could find peace and contentment, you can too.
Would you come to worship… If your body was wracked with cancer and pain? your life was torn by an unchristian spouse? I was blessed to know an elderly lady in the church who did. Despite great physical pain she came every Sunday. Every time she left for church, her husband cussed and cursed her, hurling insults, calling her names and saying she was only going to sleep with the men. Yet every Sunday, she had a smile on her face and was glad to be at the assembly. Her very presence was edifying and encouraging (cf. Hebrews 10:23-25). If she could find the will to come to worship, you can too.
We need to remove the words “I can’t” from our language and replace them with “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). God will give us the strength and ability to serve Him if we are willing.
